Goldstein, Eda G. Object Relations Theory and Self Psychology in Social Work Practice

Adolescence, Winter, 2004

GOLDSTEIN, Eda G. Object Relations Theory and Self Psychology in Social Work Practice. New York: The Free Press, 2002. 336pp. $35.00 (h).

Object relations and self psychology are two leading schools of psychological thought discussed in social work classrooms and applied by practitioners to a variety of social work populations. Yet both groups have lacked a basic manual for teaching and reference. Eda G. Goldstein's book fills this void on two fronts: Part I provides a readable, systematic, and comprehensive review of object relations and self psychology, while Part II gives readers a friendly, step-by-step description and illustration of basic treatment techniques. For educators, this textbook offers a learned and accessible discussion of the major concepts and terminology, treatment principles, and the relationship of object relations and self psychology to classic Freudian theory. Practitioners will find treatment guidelines for such varied problems as illness and disability, the loss of a significant other, and such special problems as substance abuse, child maltreatment, and couple and family disruptions.